I am a road runner and interested in trail running

[sweetgal]

I have been road racing for about three years and now planning to concentrate on starting trail running soon. What you people think, how should I go for it.

Thanks

[gc_4845]

I LOVE trail running, you get much more out of it in my opinion. Better air, no cars, less people, more cushion for your feet, great smells, great scenery, more rugged, more natural, everything. Id go research some good trail running shoes online, see what ones you like, then go somewhere and try em on. Id just go for it. Have fun!

[Billiken]

Trail running is wonderful! I began doing it in the past six months and find myself constantly looking for new and challenging trails. Once you do it, you will likely become hooked. My running buddies and I just did the Psyco Wyco Run Toto Run 10 mile trail run (Google it for details) and it was a blast. Much different experience than road racing and, in my opinion, much more challenging. When you get into the Ultras, that is a whole different class, but something I aspire to.

The Billiken

[Blaine Moore]

I highly recommend mixing some in!

Rather than cutting and pasting, I'll point you at a couple of articles that I've written over the past year about trail running.

The first one is at:
Trail Running 101 at Peak Performance @ Run to Win
This article is a summary of a clinic given by a couple of ultramarathoners in my area, and discusses the advantages, disadvantages, tips, tactics, gear and all things running. You can download the powerpoint presentation from the talk as well.

The second one is at:
Trail running deserves more attention from road runners @ Run to Win
This article will be useful for you because it specifically addresses the differences you'll find as you transition from a road run to a trail run.